Did Our Founders Create a Binding Contract or a Living Document?

I have a big problem. It seems that I can’t ever walk away from a debate, specifically on a political issue that I believe strongly in… and those are numerous. One particular argument that continues to get under my skin occurs each time a liberal gets backed into the corner and is forced to confront his belief againstthe Constitution. Like clockwork, I can expect that liberal to immediately revert to the old line, “Well, the Constitution is a living document and is meant to grow with the times.” Yet, I’ve always found it amazing that it only seems to grow towards a liberal idealogy.

That sounds so simple and logical to the average non-thinker and uninformed citizen, doesn’t it? I mean, how can you argue the fact that we live in such a different, industrial and intelligent age now? Surely, those old-fashioned Neanderthals couldn’t possibly understand the problems that are currently facing us?

For the sake of argument, let’s set aside the average American and not even delve into the lack of education, both historic and current, that we see on display everyday. I know that while I watch in utter disgust, most people get a good laugh watching Jay Leno intercept and interview the common American on the streets.

I know that as he confronts person after person with questions like, “Who is the current Vice President?” or “Who is the Speaker of the House?” or asks them to identify pictures of people like Ronald Reagan or George Washington that the audience dissolves in laughter at the empty expression or idiotic responses we hear each and every time.

While they know nothing of their heritage and current events that affect their lives on a daily basis, each one of them knows by memory the current BRAVO schedule and who is appearing on Big Brother and American Idol. They can tell you that Brad’s and Angelina’s relationship is on the rocks and Jennifer Aniston has been pregnant for at least six years now.

On the other hand, we have a group of men who were some of the most superior and intelligent human beings, whose daily diets consisted of reading from some of the greatest minds that have ever walked our planet. Despite their class and their careers, whether they were lawyers or farmers, their daily reading consisted of books by men like Cicero, Plato, Aristotle, Adam Smith, and the Bible.